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Volunteer |  |
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See the Index for more topics, information, hints and tips.
It takes a lot of volunteers putting in a lot of hours to make a race happen, even a small race.
Since you are participating in the sport, you should try to give back to it. It can be very rewarding and educational, also.
Things you might want to know and consider about volunteering:
Pre-race
You have to get there early, but you get a great parking place! Usually you are finished before the race starts, so you can still participate. Things you might need: flashlight, pre-race nutrition, and insect repellant.
Water stop, aid station, or post race
You are away from the crowds at the race start. Where you are located on the course determines how long you will be out there. If the race has runners between 5 and 18 minutes per mile and you are at mile 2 then expect the first runner at 10 minutes and the last one at 36 minutes. If you are at mile 10, the first runner would come by at 50 minutes and the last runner at 3 hours.
Take whatever you are going to need to be comfortable during this time. Things to consider include: hydration, nutrition, sunscreen, insect repellant, hat, rain gear, cold weather gear (you get a lot colder when you are standing around and not running), and a small folding chair.
If you are in a really charitable mood consider taking along some extra things that people might want/need. Think of things you might appreciate during a race. These could include trash bags for rain, wind, or cold weather, electrolytes, a poster with some witty words of encouragement, a piece of chocolate, vaseline and bandaids for chaffing, or tissue. You don’t have to give them to everyone, but the few that you do will REALLY appreciate your thoughtfulness and empathy.
If you are working a water stop or aid station, try to watch the running form of different runners. Notice the difference between the elite and mid-pack and back of the pack runners.
Also note the runners who are running at about your pace. You will probably see some who are faster than you but are older, look more out of shape, have worse running form, or a physical disability. These should give you incentives for working harder.
You may also see runners who are slower than you who are younger and look to be in better shape than you. These should give you encouragement for how far you have progressed.
Let your friends know where you will be so they can look for you. Wearing something bright colored or unique will make it easier for them to spot you. And be on the watch for them. A warm smile and a cheer or word of encouragement especially from a friend are always welcome.
Be friendly, supportive, and give encouragement to everyone. Watch people’s faces: are they serious, hurting, or having fun? What might you be able to do to help that person? You’ve been on the other side as a participant, what things would you like a volunteer to do to help you?
At larger races, volunteers get a special shirt to identify them – a bling without having to run!
